Last year was an absolutely massive year for sneakers. With collabs like Off-White x Nike completely changing the game, and heritage fashion houses such as Balenciaga and Gucci dropping nothing but heat, it was the year that transformed the entire sneaker industry.
For 2018, this will pretty much remain the same for the most part, however, there are a few trends that will become more prominent. With that being said, we've compiled a list of the top five trends that will absolutely dominate the sneaker landscape this year.
Maximising Minimalism
This is, without a doubt, the most obvious sneaker trend of 2018. Everyone is trying to make the conventional sneaker more sleek and simple. From the classic Nike Air Force 1 '07, which completely does away with any sort of colour, to the adidas Originals NMD CS1 'Triple Black', which strips back the conventional lacing system in favour of a sock-like aesthetic, this trend will not die anytime soon.
Graphic Content
Now for a trend that's on the other side of the spectrum. A few seasons ago, big graphics on sneakers would have been deemed to be way too ostentatious, however, thanks to the likes of Nike and Gucci, graphic content is everything now. The Nike Air Max 1 'Just Do It' was logo heaven, while the Swoosh's collaboration with Sean Wotherspoon for the Sean Wotherspoon x Nike Air Max 97/1 and Parra for the Parra x Nike Air Max 1 boasts some of the most colourful graphics seen on any sneaker. The Gucci Rhyton also follows this trend, featuring a massive logo on the side panels.
Dadcore Vibes
While we're on the topic of Gucci and ostentatiousness, the dadcore trend is undoubtedly the biggest fashion statement of the year. Headed by the Balenciaga Triple S and the adidas Originals Yung-1, there's just something about this trend that makes it so desirable. Anything but subtle, the majority of dad sneaks are retro, over-designed and feature thiccc midsoles that'll probably make you a few inches taller. We can see the dad shoe trend being a huge thing in 2019.
Throwback Thursday
Another retro trend, sneakerheads have been absolutely loving the throwback trend this year. From the Converse Chuck Taylor 1970s Hi to the Nike Air Max Deluxe, these silhouettes come in every shape and size, making it one of the more versatile trends out there. adidas Originals also played a big part here, with the return of the adidas Originals ZX 500 RM which might've graced your sneaker collection back in the '80s.
Back To The Future
This may be slightly unexpected after the last two trends, but the industry is going back to the future this year. Headed by the adidas AlphaEdge 4D, the Three Stripes' 3D printing tech was crowned by Time Magazine as one of the twenty five best inventions of this year. On the other hand, the Nike Zoom Fly ZP is also killing it in this field, utilising a slew of brand new technologies such as a full length, carbon infused nylon plate embedded inside the midsole, and Lunarlon cushioning which combines soft and firm foam for a balance of shock absorption, stability, and response, without on sacrificing comfort. We can't wait to see what the future holds.
Who do you think of our list of the top five sneaker trends of 2018? Do you agree with it or do you think there should be a few more worthy mentions? Let us know in the comments section below, and be sure to keep it locked at The Sole Supplier for the latest and greatest in sneakers!
